Lockheed Martin to move 560 jobs from Georgia to Texas

MARIETTA, Ga. -- Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co. announced on Tuesday that it will relocate around 560 F-22 jobs from Marietta, Ga. to Fort Worth, Texas in 2013.

According to a spokesperson for the company, the movement is part of their corporate-wide affordability initiative to maintain a competitive edge and customer service while facing challenging budgets.

The non-production, F-22 employees of Marietta will have the opportunity to transfer to Fort Worth, allowing them to keep their jobs. Those who do not chose to move will continue working in Marietta until their tasks and responsibilities have been transferred to Texas, the company reported.

When that time comes, those staying in Marietta will either be reassigned or considered for the reduction in force, if no jobs are available there.

According to the company, the relocation could mean a savings of approximately $250 million over a five-year span.

"The economic realities of today's defense business climate require us to drive down costs in order to deliver on our commitments to the warfighter and remain competitive for the future," said Jeff Babione, vice president of Lockheed Martin's F-16/F-22 Integrated Fighter Group. "Operating from a centralized location will improve our overall affordability, streamline operations, foster an environment of greater collaboration and ultimately enhance the level of support we provide our customers."